Abstract
Melanized Cryptococcus neoformans cells were less susceptible than nonmelanized cells to the fungicidal effects of nitrogen- and oxygen-derived oxidants. The results support the hypothesis that the phenoloxidase enzyme system contributes to virulence by protecting C. neoformans against nitrogen- and oxygen-derived oxidative antimicrobial molecules produced by immune effector cells.
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Antifungal Agents / pharmacology*
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Cryptococcus neoformans / drug effects*
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Cryptococcus neoformans / immunology
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Cryptococcus neoformans / pathogenicity
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Free Radicals
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Melanins*
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Nitric Oxide / pharmacology*
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Oxidation-Reduction
Substances
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Antifungal Agents
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Free Radicals
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Melanins
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Nitric Oxide